As a trusted yoga training school in Rishikesh, we often encounter queries like this from our prospective International students. So, let's start by addressing the elephant in the room. For many solo travelers, particularly female travelers, the prospect of exploring India can definitely raise some red flags about personal safety. We totally get it - certain past incidents have created some pretty glaring misconceptions about how secure things really are for women here.
Rishikesh, with its inflow of thousands of International tourists every year is no stranger to solo travelers coming for spirituality and personal growth. The locals take a lot of pride in living the practical meaning of ‘Atithi devo bhava’ translating to ‘the guest is god’; so, you can be rest assured that by and large you will receive warm acceptance in Rishikesh.
Leanne Yardley - UK based ex-student of Rishikesh Yogpeeth talks about her solo travel experience to Rishikesh
However, with the right preparation and personal support system in place, any lingering safety concerns can be put to rest.
But before we delve directly into the solutions, let’s see the real challenges that International students’ face and what we do to safeguard them!